As efforts to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 continue to produce better results, discussions at the national, state, and local level transition to the reopening of commerce. Governments, elected officials, and partners in the travel economy have asked our industry for input on the necessary steps that will allow a safe and responsible restart to business, travel, and other economic activity.  The hotel & lodging industry has provided guidance in a number of key areas that will ensure that as our businesses get back to more regular operation, employees, guests, properties, and our entire state are safe, protected, and able to take advantage of all that Ohio has to offer.

Enhanced Industry-Wide Hotel Cleaning Standards in Response to COVID-19

The lodging industry has a longstanding commitment to cleanliness and safety for our employees and guests and already maintained strict protocols in this regard. These new health and safety guidelines represent best practices for the hotel industry, in accordance with CDC guidelines, during the re-opening phase of the economy. Developed by an Advisory Council including all of the major national hotel brands and companies, these industry-wide standards are endorsed by the Ohio Hotel & Lodging Association as the basis for state and local benchmarks.

Customers & Guests

• Ensure a minimum of 6 feet between customers, when possible
• Specify hours for at-risk populations, as appropriate (e.g. elderly)
• Place hand sanitizers in high-contact locations
• Ask customers and guests not to enter if symptomatic
• Stagger entry of customers and guests • Entertainment businesses that offer sports activities and sports leagues must follow guidance for General NonContact Sports

Physical Spaces
• Ensure a minimum of 6 feet between people, if possible. If not possible, install barriers
• Post social distancing signage and disinfect high-contact surfaces hourly
• Clean merchandise before stocking if possible
• Establish maximum capacity
• Discontinue self-service food stations, product samples
• Food courts must follow Restaurants, Bars, and Banquet & Catering Facilities/Services Guidance
• Entertainment businesses with foodservice operations must also follow Restaurants, Bars, and Banquet & Catering Facilities/Services Guidance